10 Best Biking, Hiking and Walking Trails in Greater Lansing from Orthopaedic Rehab Specialists | Greater Lansing Area Moms

Brought to you by Orthopaedic Rehab Specialists Physical Therapy

Hiking is a hugely popular activity in Michigan, and it’s not hard to see why. With 19.3 million acres of forested land and 3,288 miles of coastline, the state is full of opportunities to enjoy nature.

Walking, biking, and hiking are great ways to stay active as part of a healthy lifestyle, and trails in Lansing Michigan offer plenty of opportunities to do so! If you live in Lansing and are looking for a nearby biking or hiking trail, we have 10 great recommendations!

  1. LANSING RIVER TRAIL

First established in 1975, the Lansing River Trail extends from the Urban River waterfront into the surrounding region. The Lansing River Trail goes from Waverly Road to Old Town with routes connecting to Michigan State University.

This trail has over 20 miles of paved trails that winds through various parks, nature reserves, and downtown Lansing itself. This trail connects every river-oriented spot in Lansing and the surrounding area.

Significant activities and sights to see include the Adado Riverfront Park (home to the annual Common Ground Music Festival), birdwatching walks, the Brenke Fish Ladder, Crego Park, canoe and kayak rentals, and the dozens of restaurants, shops, and bars located in downtown Lansing.

  1. HAWK ISLAND PARK

The Hawk Island County Park is integrated into the Lansing River Trail and is one of its chief attractions. Nestled on Cavanaugh Street (just a few miles north of our Holt physical therapy clinic), Hawk Island Park has pedal boat and rowboat rentals, picnic areas, a sand volleyball pit, horseshoe pit, swimming beach, concession stand, fishing docks, and over 1 1/2 miles of paved trails. 

The main hill makes for stellar sledding, and trails are still maintained, making a visit one of the best ways to stay active during the winter in Lansing

This year-round slew of activities makes Hawk Island a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Parking your car is $3 for residents and $5 for visitors, though annual passes are also offered.

  1. DEWITT TOWNSHIP TRAIL

The DeWitt Township Trail is located just outside Lansing proper in DeWitt Township. This trail is spread throughout the 70-acre Richard A. Padgett Natural Area, putting plenty of distance between visitors and the hustle of modern life. 

Both marked and unmarked trails are on offer here. Woodchip trails lead to a picnic area with tables, benches, and grills for refreshment after a long hike. A perfect place to wander and soak in the natural world, this trail is chock full of oaks, maples, cherries, and plenty of wildlife.

  1. LAKE LANSING NORTH TRAIL

The Lake Lansing North Trail is just under four miles long and one of the most popular spots in the area. Located just a few minutes outside Lansing near Haslett, the North Trail is a fantastic spot to see wildflowers and wildlife. This trail is good for beginners and experienced hikers alike.

The loop route trail is kid-friendly and allows leashed dogs, too. Popular activities include biking, running, and birdwatching. Renowned for its natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, dense tree cover, and varied topography, the Lake Lansing North Trail isn’t to be missed!

  1. DELTA MILLS TRAIL

Delta Township just outside Lansing is home to numerous gorgeous hiking, jogging, and bicycling trails. The East/West Pathway goes from Elmwood to Canal. Other trails in this West Lansing network of trails include the Hawk Meadow Trail and Grand Woods Trail.

Amenities include picnic areas, shelters, a playground, two softball fields, a basketball court, a horseshoe pit, restrooms, drinking water, a volleyball court, two tennis courts, and a canoe launch. Fishing is allowed, though the park closes at dusk.

  1. TOLLGATE WETLANDS LOOP TRAIL

The Tollgate Wetlands Loop Trail is a beautiful nature preserve and wetland that serves as a major tourist attraction. Open 24 hours a day, the Tollgate Wetlands offer an abundance of local flora and fauna. This trail is great for kids and has a wheelchair-accessible entrance. Visitors rave about its local wildlife, careful cultivation, and surprising nearness to urban Lansing.  

  1. THE LEDGES

The Ledges is an easy trail of moderate length located in Fitzgerald Park, not far from our West Lansing Grand Ledge physical therapy clinic. At just under four miles, it is ideal for hikers of all skill levels. It winds along the local river, offering sights of watery vistas and plenty of animal life.

The Ledges is also open to dogs as long as they are leashed, so you can bring the whole family along. This is also a popular spot for nature trips, with plenty of opportunities to spot birds, animals, and plant life.

  1. BRATTIN WOODS PARK TRAIL

Brattin Woods Park Trail is located in Meridian Township, just outside Lansing near our Okemos physical therapy clinic. This area is full of lush natural areas that offer plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking.

Bordered by a small wetland, Brattin Woods is the perfect place to spot local wildlife. It includes an observation deck where people can rest, look for birds, and simply enjoy being outside. Brattin Woods is located within a breathtaking hardwood forest, offering lush views of the surrounding trees.

  1. BANCROFT PARK TRAIL LOOP

Bancroft Park Trail Loop is a small, family-friendly hiking trail that is perfect for beginning hikers and young kids. At just under a mile and a half, this trail is a wonderful chance for an easy afternoon hike. It also offers the chance to see local wildlife as it winds through the forest.

Thanks to Bancroft Park Trail’s proximity to the city, it is a popular spot for simple day trips that don’t take you too far away from Lansing. 

  1. TAMARACK TRAIL

Tamarack Trail is a simple hiking trail located just outside Lansing. At only a mile and a half long, it is an ideal choice for families or young kids. The trail is also open to leashed dogs, so feel free to bring your four-legged friend along. 

Winding through the open forest, Tamarack Trail offers the chance to see lush wildflowers and even animals and birds. It is open throughout the year and is a popular place for snowshoeing in the winter months! Many people enjoy Tamarack Trail since it is easy to access from the city itself, making it perfect for a quick day trip.

 

ORS has 12 physical therapy clinics in mid-Michigan to care for you.

Featured information provided by Orthopaedic Rehab Specialists.

Reach Orthopaedic Rehab Specialists at 877-202-2175 or the social media links below.

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